Kaley Cuoco is an American actress best known for playing Penny on The Big Bang Theory and Bridget Hennessy on 8 Simple Rules.

Cuoco was born in Camarillo, California, and began acting as a child. Her early credits included the TV movie Quicksand: No Escape, the film Virtuosity, and guest appearances on shows including Ellen and Northern Exposure.

In 2002, Cuoco landed her breakout role as Bridget Hennessy on the ABC sitcom 8 Simple Rules, starring opposite John Ritter and Katey Sagal. After the show ended, she joined the final season of Charmed as Billie Jenkins. She also voiced Brandy Harrington on the animated series Brandy & Mr. Whiskers.

Cuoco was cast as Penny on The Big Bang Theory when the show was redeveloped for the 2007/08 season. The show ran for twelve seasons and earned Cuoco multiple People’s Choice Awards for her role.

Since The Big Bang Theory ended, Cuoco has starred as Cassie Bowden in The Flight Attendant, which she also executive produced, earning Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for the role. She also voices the title character in the animated series Harley Quinn. Her recent credits include the TV comedy thriller Based on a True Story, and the films The Man from Toronto, Meet Cute and Role Play.

View Penny character profile